Muir announces run for judgship

Friday

Feb 22, 2013 at 12:00 AMFeb 25, 2013 at 3:17 PM

Attorney Shannon L. Muir, a partner with the Milford-based firm of Galasso, Kimler & Muir, P.C., has announced her candidacy for Magisterial District Judge for Palmyra, Greene and Blooming Grove townships.

Attorney Shannon L. Muir, a partner with the Milford-based firm of Galasso, Kimler & Muir, P.C., has announced her candidacy for Magisterial District Judge for Palmyra, Greene and Blooming Grove townships.

Muir, a litigator whose experience includes serving as a law clerk to esteemed Pike County President Judge Joseph Kameen, is best known for her advocacy on behalf of children.

Muir was recognized in 2008 for her volunteer representation of youth affected by Luzerne County's infamous "Kids for Cash" scandal. The scandal resulted in the imprisonment of the judge who exploited children for monetary gain.

Muir was honored by the Juvenile Law Center with the 2008 Pro Bono Award.

"Early in my practice, I had the opportunity to observe and aid in the measured decision-making process judges must undertake," Muir said. Advocating for youth in the Luzerne County scandal, Muir witnessed "the complete opposite of what judges should be."

Muir, married to Honesdale native Attorney Matthew J. Galasso and a mother of three, is committed to upholding the values — integrity, fairness, and honesty — of magistrate.

"A judge at any level is in a position of great trust. A judge is obligated to put aside any personal and political interests and biases, and strictly adhere to the rule of law. Judges are meant to be in a humble position."

Pike County Incumbent Magisterial Judge Jay Rose is scheduled to retire at the end of 2013. Under current Pennsylvania law, judges must retire at age 70.

Before her partnership at Galasso, Kimler & Muir, P.C., Muir was an attorney with the Hawley firm of Spall, Rydzewski, Anderson, et al., and the Pittsburgh firm of Matis, Baum, et al. Muir believes her experience as an attorney will be an asset on the bench, as will her experience as a mother and active member of her community.

"Everyone should feel comfortable telling their story to the judge. I am just like most people. We all get up, go to work, and try our best to care for our families and our community."

The primary election will be held on May 21.

For more information on Shannon L. Muir: https://www.facebook.com/AttorneyShannonLMuirForMagisterialDistrictJudge.